Every location offers a selection of popular and entertaining casino games. Table games include roulette, craps, blackjack, baccarat and red dog. Banks of slot machines and video poker consoles line the walls and players can also give the Wheel of Fortune a whirl. Poker experts are catered for in designated poker rooms away from the bright lights and razzle-dazzle of the casino floor. Poker games on offer include favourites such as Texas Hold 'Em, Omaha High, Super Hold 'Em, Pineapple and Crazy Pineapple.
Starting off at the small but perfectly formed "Egyptian Kings" casino, players earn stars by gambling smartly. As more stars are earned, ever more exclusive casinos become available to explore, culminating in the ultra chic "Skies the Limit" venue where the rich and powerful play.
Players are also encouraged to customise their on screen alter egos from a selection of different player models and outfits when creating their character at the start of the game. In addition, each casino boasts a boutique where players can purchase designer couture and blinging accessories to show the world just what a successful player they are. Players will need to play smart though, because character animation and even on-screen stance and mood is affected by gambling success – or lack of it! Lose too much too often and characters will slouch and slump, giving away their loser status for the world to see. Conversely, play well and the player will be punching the sky with a spring in his or her step.
The game features an innovative context-sensitive control system that allows for the maximum amount of commands at the player's disposal. Commands range from raising and lowering bets, to taunting rivals, blowing on dice for luck, bluffing and even a spot of flirting with fellow players if the mood and atmosphere take you.
Playwize Poker and Casino is arguably the most complete and comprehensive gambling title available on home consoles and has an air of humour and playfulness to match its attention to detail that makes each of the game's venues a joy to explore. It also offers deadly accurate AI and faithfully recreated casino games to ensure the game appeals to experienced gamblers as well as more casual players.
Playwize Poker and Casino, developed by Bits Studios, releases on PlayStation 2 on 23rd June priced £19.99 and on PSP in October.